19 Best Things to do in Sedona

Sedona, Arizona is a scenic desert town surrounded by steep canyons and red-rock buttes. This area is known for its abundance of outdoor activities, the lively arts community, as well as beautiful landscapes. The city of Sedona is a great place to visit whether you’re interested in staying at luxury resorts or exploring the stark wilderness.

There are plenty of things to do when traveling to the Sedona area. The vibrant city, as well as the gorgeous desert environment, will take your breath away. If you’re planning a trip to Arizona, make sure you stop and check out these Sedona attractions.

Here’s our list of the 19 best things to do in Sedona.

1. Oak Creek Canyon

Oak Creek Canyon is a wonderful spot in Sedona for camping, hiking, or having a picnic. This scenic area is the perfect place for families or couples to spend the day. With grills, walking trails, and lookout points, there’s plenty of things to do. Nearby creeks also give visitors the chance to go fishing or cool off with a swim.

2. Chapel of the Holy Cross

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a breathtaking sight to visit even if you aren’t religious. Built into the red, rocky buttes of Sedona, this Roman Catholic chapel is a truly stunning display. Throughout the day, the stained glass windows reflect and glow in the powerful Arizona sunlight.

The view of this massive structure emerging from the desert landscape is also an impressive sight to behold. It’s not surprising that this architectural masterpiece possesses such beauty and grandeur since it was built by a student of Frank Lloyd Wright.

3. Sedona Heritage Museum

The Sedona Heritage Museum is a fascinating attraction for travelers who are interested in learning about the region’s history. This museum focuses on the settlers of Sedona who arrived in the mid-1870s. Guided tours and interactive displays teach visitors what life was like during that time period. Also, the museum itself is housed inside of a real preserved farmstead from the 1870s.

4. Devil’s Bridge

Although it’s a little off the beaten path, seeing Devil’s Bridge is worth the hike. This rock formation is an awe-inspiring 50-foot tall sandstone arch. The gorgeous sight is the reward for hikers who finish Devil’s Bridge Trail, which is a 1.8-mile trek. The path on the trail is smooth and flat, making for a relatively easy hike.

If you’re a nature lover visiting Sedona, you’ll love this incredible and powerful rock. Devil’s Bridge is a must-see attraction during a trip to Sedona.

5. Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village

Whether you love shopping, sightseeing, or socializing, The Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village has something for everyone. Art galleries and intriguing shops tucked beneath the giant sycamore trees are highlights of this landmark attraction. Visitors can buy skillfully made art, jewelry, textiles, and also plenty of other great crafts.

This unique shopping experience takes place in an outdoor market known for its vine-covered stucco walls, cobblestone paths, and decorative arched entryways. If you want to admire beautiful artwork while also meeting with the creator, there’s no better place to visit than the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village.

6. Palatki Heritage Site

Just outside of Sedona in the Coconino National Forest, the Palatki Heritage Site is a must-see landmark. This archaeological site, which is open to the public year-round, features a series of ancient cliff dwellings carved into the red sandstone cliffs. These cliff homes are said to have been inhabited by the Sinagua people between 1150 and 1350.

Visitors can also appreciate the beauty of ancient rock art called pictographs and petroglyphs. The oldest observable examples of art are estimated to be 6,000 years old. This attraction is run by the Arizona Natural History Association and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

7. Cathedral Rock

One of the most-photographed sights in all of Arizona, Cathedral Rock is a spectacular sandstone butte. Make sure you check out this impressive landmark in the Coconino National Forest while visiting Sedona.

For hikers and adventure lovers, the Cathedral Rock trail is a popular short, steep trek. Although the hike is only about a mile long, it’s not recommended for novices. Nonetheless, the views at Cathedral Rock are unbeatable, particularly at sunset.

8. Bearcloud Gallery

Bearcloud Gallery is a fantastic shopping experience for travelers interested in authentic Native American art. This shop has everything, whether you’re looking for jewelry, pottery, leatherwork, paintings, instruments, clothing, or other crafts.

All of the pieces featured in this Sedona gallery were created by Native American artists. Visitors to Bearcloud Gallery can also enjoy the Native Cultural Center, a free museum about the incredible journey of Native Americans in the region.

9. Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park

Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park is a serene, scenic holy site that welcomes all visitors. This spiritual oasis sits on 14 acres of juniper pines, magnificent crimson spires, and winding paths. Guests are invited to pray or meditate on the grounds from dawn until dusk. Visiting the Buddhist Amitabha Stupa is a wonderfully healing experience for anyone seeking inner peace.

10. Airport Mesa Trail

For unparalleled views of Sedona, check out the Airport Mesa hiking loop. This trail takes you up 4,500 feet, offering panoramic views of the vibrant city and the red rock landscape. This fun, scenic route is a great way to spend the day during your trip to Arizona.

11. Sedona Stargazing

Sedona Stargazing is a guided astronomy experience. International Dark Sky Community of Sedona and Big Park, Arizona offer this extraordinary experience. Spend the evening gazing at the stellar night sky through telescopes while listening to professional astronomers. This activity is perfect for families, couples, and also anyone who loves space.

12. Boynton Canyon Trail

The Boynton Canyon Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Sedona, especially for nature lovers. This trail features bright red cliffs, impressive rock formations, as well as natural desert gardens. Wildlife is also common in Boynton Canyon, with many visitors sighting songbirds, lizards, and whitetail deer.

In addition to the natural beauty, Boynton Canyon also has the reputation of being home to a spiritual energy vortex. Travelers who believe in this divine energy may experience a sense of peace or healing.

13. Montezuma Castle National Monument

Montezuma Castle National Monument, sitting less than an hour outside of Sedona, is worth the visit if you’re planning a trip to the area. This monument features 20 mud and stone rooms constructed by the Sinagua people between the 12th and 15th centuries. This landmark is actually older than the Aztec Emperor it’s named after. Montezuma Castle National Monument is also the best-preserved Sinagua site in the region.

14. Bell Rock

Bell Rock is a stunning landmark in Yavapai County, Arizona. If you’re visiting Sedona, this impressive red butte will take your breath away. Bell Rock is also a popular site for meditation since many people believe a vortex of spiritual energy encompasses the rock formation.

15. Red Rock Scenic Byway

For a scenic road trip like you’ve never taken before, drive down the Red Rock Scenic Byway. This popular stretch of road offers incredible sights of Red Rock Country, and also provides great access to several trailheads. If you’re driving through Sedona, Arizona, be sure to cruise down SR 179. Driving down the Red Rock Scenic Byway is the best way to enjoy the gorgeous desert landscape while staying comfortable and cool.

16. Trailhead Tea

Trailhead Tea is a locally-owned shop offering quality teas, tea accessories, and regional art. This teahouse is more than just a store, it’s a complete and unforgettable experience. Guests are encouraged to try the delicious, local ‘Sedona Morning’ tea while browsing the store.

17. Slide Rock State Park

Just north of Sedona, Slide Rock State Park was originally a family homestead and apple orchard. More than 300 apple trees still survive in the park today. This is due to the Forest Service and Arizona State Parks who manage it. Families and nature lovers should definitely check out this state park during their vacation.

18. Enchantment Resort

Enchantment Resort is the perfect blend of rugged wilderness, luxury amenities, and also Native American culture. Guests staying here during their trip can enjoy exclusive access to spa treatments, pools, golf courses, and more. Travelers looking to make the most of their Sedona visit, while relaxing in style, should plan a stay at this deluxe resort.

19. Hitch a Ride on the Sedona Trolley

If you’re looking for the coolest way to explore all of the sites in and around Sedona, look no further than taking the Sedona Trolley. The Sedona Trolley offers three different unique tours to explore different areas of this magnificent part of the country. The Sedona Trolley tours are as follows:

Tour A

• 55 minutes
• Tours South Sedona and the Chapel of the Holy Cross
• Times: 9 AM, 11 AM, and 2 PM
• $17 for adults and $12 for children 12 and under

Tour B

• 55 minutes
• Tours West Sedona and Boynton Canyon
• Times: 10 AM, 12:30 PM, and 3:30 PM
• $17 for adults and $12 for children 12 and under

Sedona Sunset Tour

• 90 minutes
• Tours through uptown Sedona, Schnebly Hill Formation, and Sedona Airport Mesa
• Rides from late afternoon until past sunset
• $25 for adults and $20 for children 12 and under